It was a beautiful, sunny day yesterday. The weather was just perfect for fishing and that was what we did. We brought along our fishing rods, baits and a big bucket to hold our catch.

There were a few families already fishing at the pond when we arrived. A little boy squealed with delight when he reeled in a fish. I looked at him enviously and could not wait to get my line in the water.

After hooking a wriggling earthworm, I cast the line into the water and settled down to wait patiently for a fish to bite. Very soon, my line was jerked tight. Filled with both exhilaration and anticipation, I quickly reeled in the line. To my disappointment, it was only a small fry.

Recasting the line, I idly observed the other anglers. Some of the adults had caught some big fish. A loud cheer rang out when a tall man snagged a 10-pounder. In the end, I only managed to catch three small fries. It did not matter whether I caught a big or a small fish because I had enjoyed myself tremendously. I could not wait to go fishing again. Just like a pianist who needs much practice to perfect her scales so does an angler if he wants to snag a 30-pounder!

Some very proud anglers with their fine catch.

Photos of this rare sea creature, which was released after being caught, are courtesy of Mark Quartiano